La Niña Could Bring Warmer, Drier Conditions to South Carolina This Fall and Winter
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — Meteorologists say South Carolina could be in for a warmer and drier stretch this fall and winter, as the chances grow for a La Niña weather pattern to develop in the Pacific Ocean.
High Odds for La Niña This Fall
According to NOAA, there is a 71 percent chance of La Niña developing and persisting through December. By winter, between December and February, the odds decrease slightly to 54 percent, with models indicating the pattern could weaken by spring 2026.
What La Niña Means for the Southeast
La Niña occurs when Pacific Ocean surface temperatures are cooler than normal, which shifts the jet stream farther north. For the Southeast, that often means fewer storms, less cloud cover, and higher-than-average temperatures.
During La Niña winters, South Carolina typically experiences milder and drier conditions, though occasional cold snaps and storms can still occur. Historically, winters like 2016–2017 showed the same pattern of warmer-than-average months across the Carolinas.
Seasonal Impacts for South Carolina
Forecasters expect:
- Warmer fall days with less rain across much of the state.
- Drier winter conditions, especially in the Midlands and coastal regions.
- Above-average water temperatures in the Gulf and Atlantic, which can fuel late-season storms.
Even with La Niña present, meteorologists stress that residents should still prepare for cold fronts and occasional severe weather, though such events may be less frequent and less intense overall.
Looking Ahead
The 2025–2026 winter season is shaping up to be milder than usual, but forecasters emphasize that South Carolinians should not rule out short bursts of cold air or storm systems. The overall trend, however, is expected to lean toward warmer and drier conditions compared to the state’s historical averages.
Do you welcome the prospect of a warmer, milder winter in South Carolina, or are you concerned about the lack of rainfall? Share your perspective and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
